Maariyah Islam

Please tell us a bit about yourself and your background.

As I am the first person in my family to enter higher education, I was initially anxious about studying Law at a university as prestigious as the University of Leeds. I reside in the upper side of the small town of Batley: a friendly commute to Leeds. I completed my LLB at the University of Leeds last summer and, having greatly enjoyed my time in the School of Law, I decided to continue my studies by undertaking a Masters by Research (MRes). In the near future, I plan to extend my research by studying a PhD in banking and financial law. In my free time I particularly enjoy reading, horse riding, travelling and pursuing new challenges. I am also a secondary tutor at the Tutor Trust.

What motivated you to apply to study your chosen course and why did you choose Leeds?

Leeds was my first choice as it is one of the leading law schools in the country with academic staff that are leading researchers, within their respective fields. Whilst studying my undergraduate degree, I greatly enjoyed conducting research for my dissertation. I wanted to study a course that would allow me to progress my research further in an independent manner, as well as push myself to new limits. The MRes has allowed me to do just that. It has allowed me to expand my research and develop my ideas along with the support of my supervisors.

What do you think of your course, have there been any particular highlights for you?

I have thoroughly enjoyed my course and feel sorrow that my research journey is almost over. I have particularly enjoyed my position as a Postgraduate Research Representative (PGR) within the School of Law. This role has allowed me to assist in improving the student experience further and organise social events throughout the academic year.

Furthermore, I am greatly appreciative for the personal development I have achieved whilst studying the MRes. My research journey has made me much more confident in my abilities and I now feel particularly enthused to embark upon a PhD in the near future.

How would you describe the help and guidance provided by the staff within the School?

The outstanding support offered by the members of staff was a key reason for my decision to return to the University to study the MRes. Although my course doesn’t involve any taught modules, I am always able to contact academic members of staff for assistance and advice. My supervisors have been extremely encouraging throughout the course, and always try their utmost to ensure that I am achieving my maximum potential. I am deeply honoured to be given the opportunity to work alongside Professor Andrew Campbell, a renowned scholar of International Banking and Financial Law. The academic staff within the Law School truly makes it a great place to be a part of.

How would you describe the facilities at the University?

The School of Law provides outstanding facilities for its students to ensure that they are able to pursue their studies in a pleasant environment. During my Masters, I have spent the majority of my time in the postgraduate research centre; a positive working space equipped with computers and safe space to store the vast amount of books and papers that I have used whilst conducting my research. In addition to this, the postgraduate common room provides an environment in which I have been able to socialise with other researchers and enjoy a well-deserved cup of tea after an intensive work session. Furthermore, it is great to be a part of the wider campus as there are always new events and opportunities to watch, undertake and involve myself in.

Have you been involved in extra-curricular activities, such as societies, summer placements etc?

I am a member of Student Action for Refugees. I have also previously volunteered with the British Red Cross and Together Women Project. This year I have been privileged to be given the opportunity to assist in teaching undergraduate seminars. Furthermore, my position as a PGR has allowed me to represent the views of fellow postgraduate researchers in committee meetings. These meetings have showcased particularly that every students’ input is valuable.